Financial giving is an important part of a relationship between a believer and God, but there are many misconceptions about what giving is and what it means.
Talking Points:
- Money has such a large pull on our hearts, what we do with our money reflects whom or what we love. So giving is about a relationship – with either God or money. Matthew 6:24
- In human relationships, we’re willing to sacrifice to show others how much they mean to us. The same is true of giving to God. If it hurts a bit to give financially, that causes us to evaluate our priorities.
- We don’t give God our leftovers. When we give to God first, before taking care of ourselves, we are trusting in him to fulfill the promise that he will give us plenty to meet our needs. Proverbs 3:9-10
- Each of us has the privilege of deciding for ourselves how much to give. God doesn’t want us to give begrudgingly or under pressure. But a bad attitude is not a reason to stop giving. God can change your attitude if you are willing. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Describe some ways God has provided for you materially.
- Why is giving financially to God so difficult for many Christians to embrace?
- Read Matthew 6:24. What do our financial choices say about our relationship with God?
- Read Philippians 4:14-19. What was Paul’s attitude toward the gift this church sent to support him?
- What evidence do you see in this passage that giving is more than just an economic transaction?
- Read 1 Corinthians 16:2. How does this help us decide how to give? What other factors should shape your decision about how much to give and where to give it?
- If giving is an act of trusting God, should a person give to God first before paying for essentials like food or utilities? Explain.
- Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. What factors make you cheerful about giving? What would you advise a person to do if they aren’t cheerful about giving?
- Do you agree or disagree that the local church should come first in your basic giving commitments?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
